By Lodu William Odiya
Officers of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) in Western Equatoria State have called on authorities to fast-track their integration into the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), citing delays that are affecting their welfare and morale.
In a statement by the WES press, the appeal was made during a meeting with the State Governor, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, in Yambio on Wednesday.
The officers are part of a group of more than 1,900 SPLA-IO personnel who defected in April 2025 under Sector Six and pledged allegiance to the government in support of peace efforts.
According to the press unit, the Acting SPLA-IO Sector Six Commander, Major General Edward Razig Joseph, during the meeting said a national integration committee is expected to arrive in Western Equatoria State next week to oversee the process.
He urged all registered personnel from across the state to report to Yambio for registration and assembly ahead of the integration exercise.
“The committee will be in the state next week. All registered members are required to report for the process to ensure proper integration,” Razig stressed.
Razig underscored that many of the officers had been facing hardship due to the delay, including lack of basic necessities such as food, medical care, and salaries.
The Acting SSPDF Commander in Western Equatoria State, Major General Bior Kuir Deng, welcomed the former SPLA-IO officers for embracing peace and joining government forces.
He emphasized the importance of a transparent and fair process, cautioning against irregularities in rank allocation.
“The integration must be conducted fairly and professionally. It is important to ensure that only eligible personnel are considered,” Deng said.
Governor Badagbu commended the officers for choosing peace and assured them that the state government is engaging national authorities to ensure the process is completed.
He also called on those still in opposition to lay down their arms and join the peace process.
“Peace is the way forward. Those still in the bush are encouraged to come out and be part of the ongoing integration so they can build their future and contribute to stability,” he said.
The officers reaffirmed their commitment to peace and called for transparency in rank harmonization, deployment, and access to salaries once integrated.